Online Learning – Debunking 4 Myths

Numerous myths and misconceptions still exist about homeschooling and other non-traditional education options, especially online learning. Virtual schools, such as Connections Academy, have grown in popularity in recent years—and yet the myths about this school choice persist.
As a homeschool mom for 16 years, I know firsthand that the online education experience can be just as successful as any traditional bricks-and-mortar education. Our boys have flourished academically while still pursuing their passions online. They receive personalized attention when needed and get to focus on their education, their interests, giving back to the community, and building relationships online and off without unnecessary distractions. Below are four of the most common myths about online learning I’ve heard while at home with my sons, and the real truth behind each misconception.

Debunking 4 Myths About Online Learning

Myth: My child won’t receive a high-quality education online.
Truth: Many academic institutions implement rigorous processes for online faculty and online courses to ensure that they meet certain academic standards. Connections Academy teachers are required to be state-certified in the state where they teach, as well as in their grade levels and subject areas. The teachers also all have at least a bachelor’s degree, with many also having a master’s or other advanced degree. Earning a diploma from a high-quality online school like Connections Academy means your child’s education will be recognized by colleges, universities, and employers alike. Connections Academy graduates have been and are being accepted into colleges and universities across the United States and around the world. The program prepares students for the rigors of higher education with a college-preparatory curriculum, including many Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Myth: My child won’t have opportunities for interaction and socialization with others.
Truth: Students enrolled in quality Connections Academy online schools are never on their own. Students have frequent one-on-one interactions with their teachers and fellow students in the online classroom. An online school teacher recently told me that she gets to know her students better because of this personal attention, and students who are shy tend to contribute more in online environments. Families can connect with teachers, school counselors, community coordinators, and other parents both online and in-person. Connections Academy offers a plethora of ways for students to meet and learn online and within their own community through field trips, volunteer projects, online clubs, talent networks, and special events.

Myth: Online courses won’t engage my student.
Truth: Quality online courses are carefully designed to directly involve students with the content, with each other, and with their instructors—and the curriculum is aligned to state standards. The online school experience helps students develop pathways to success by building on their individual strengths and interests, making learning more relatable, meaningful, and fun. Furthermore, at a Connections Academy school, learning is individualized for each student to ensure he or she remains engaged.

Myth: Virtual schools are more expensive than traditional schools.
Truth: I have one word to debunk this myth… FREE! The cost of education is a major consideration for most families, but the good news is with Connections Academy virtual public schools there is no tuition to attend – students in grades K-12 receive a public education at home for free. Students receive the best curriculum and online and offline resources without any additional cost to the family.

One of my favorite aspects of online school is the amount of time we get to spend learning outside. Online school curriculum provides our boys learning experiences inside and outside the classroom. Whether we take our lessons to the backyard, take a field trip, a nature walk or go to our local park, the learning continues. I like to call it a lifestyle of learning. Connections Academy encourages learning #OutsideSchoolWalls to help families soak up knowledge anywhere and everywhere, regardless of their current schooling choice.

Virtual school has many benefits, but it’s not one size fits all and the reasons families choose online learning are many and varied. If you have been on the fence about home education, virtual schooling might be the perfect fit for you and your child. Parents who feel ill-equipped to educate their kids at home can feel confident knowing that teachers will lead instruction—and they will find plenty of support and direction with a virtual school like Connections Academy. With today’s technology, parents and kids can customize their experience and get the very best virtual education!

Disclaimer: Connections Academy sponsored this blog post and all opinions are my own.

Comments

Connections is NOT homeschooling, it is public school at home and that is why it is free. Actually it is not free as it is paid for by tax dollars. There is a HUGE difference from homeschooling and you do not have the benefits and protection of homeschooling.